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Monday, March 4, 2013

Severe Weather Awareness Week

Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 4-8. Now is the time to be sure you're prepared for severe weather, like thunderstorms and tornadoes, as well as any other disaster that may occur.First off, create a pet emergency kit if you don't already have one. You can watch Mama's video on what you need in your kit. If you already have one, make sure it is fully stocked and up to date.

Be sure food is fresh. Check expiration dates on dry and wet food as well as treats.

If your pet is on routine medication, have a week's worth of meds in the kit.

Put an updated photo of your pet in your kit. As pets age they change, just like humans do. Don't forget an updated photo of you and your pet together to show ownership.

Have updated vet info and medical records to prove vaccinations are current.

If you have recently added a pet to your home, like Mama and Dad have, be sure you've added to your pet emergency kit accordingly.

Have enough food, water, and bowls for all pets.

Have collars/harnesses and leashes for each pet.

Include a blanket large enough to share or a blanket for each pet.

Keep carriers for each pet close by the kit.

Remember to keep your emergency kit in a convenient location. Since moving to the new house, Mama is keeping the kit in the coat closet by the front door. It makes for a quick getaway if they have to leave and is easy to get to if they have to go to the basement for shelter.

Emergency kits and carriers ready to go!

Don't forget small and furries in your pet emergency kit! Dottie has fresh hay, food, and treats included in the kit. Make sure you do the same if you have a bunny, ferret, or cavies.

Of course, have a human emergency kit as well. Mama has the basics in hers: change of clothes, contact lenses, toiletries, etc. She also bought a cool radio that Daffy (@NoCrybabyDoGs) told her about. It's a Red Cross Emergency radio that has a hand crank for power and a USB port to charge a smart phone.

It is also very important to have a plan. Make sure your family knows where they are to meet if they have to leave the home during a disaster. Be prepared with a list of local hotels that accept pets in case you have to be away from home for an extended period of time.

It's a good idea to practice your plan. Train for the event before it happens and you will be better prepared in case it actually does. Know where your pet hides if scared and get to know the best way to get your pet crated.

If you know that severe weather is on the way, bring outdoor pets inside. Some pets sense the change early on and can get spooked easily. Keep them indoors and safe so they don't run away. Many pets are lost during bad weather because they are scared.

Do you have any tips for severe weather awareness? Please share them in the comments!